ISTANBUL: High-level peace talks, hosted by Trkiye, concluded in Istanbul as part of efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. The discussions resulted in a mutual agreement to exchange 1,000 prisoners from each side and the sharing of written ceasefire terms.
According to Anadolu Agency, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan emphasized the significance of this opportunity to progress towards peace, noting that each day of delay results in further loss of life. He highlighted that the parties have agreed in principle to meet again, and reiterated Trkiye's commitment to fostering a lasting peace between Russia and Ukraine.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan praised Trkiye's leadership in global diplomacy, describing it as a leading force in humanitarian and peace diplomacy worldwide. The US delegation at the talks included high-profile officials such as Secretary of State Marco Rubio, while Ukraine was represented by notable figures including Head of the Presidential Office Andriy Yermak.
US President Donald Trump, speaking from the United Arab Emirates, disclosed that Russian President Vladimir Putin chose not to attend the talks in Istanbul due to Trump's own absence. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy communicated with global leaders to discuss the expectations and format of the Istanbul peace talks, asserting Ukraine's readiness to pursue peace actively.
The negotiations in Istanbul focused on a ceasefire, prisoner exchange, and potential direct talks between the presidents of Russia and Ukraine. Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov confirmed the agreement for a large-scale prisoner exchange, marking the largest such exchange since the conflict began. Russian delegation head Vladimir Medinsky expressed satisfaction with the outcomes, noting that both sides will present detailed visions for a possible future ceasefire.
European reactions to the talks were largely supportive. At the European Political Community summit in Tirana, European leaders, including European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, expressed optimism about the negotiations. They also underscored the need for continued diplomatic efforts and hinted at a new sanctions package against Russia to facilitate negotiations.
The United Nations welcomed the peace talks in Istanbul, viewing them as a critical step towards achieving a comprehensive and sustainable peace in Ukraine. UN spokesperson Stephanie Tremblay emphasized the importance of Trkiye and the US in facilitating these discussions and expressed hope for a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire in Ukraine.